Previous Finalists

Comments from Authors/Publishers

’Writing’s a lonely occupation at the best of times and even more so if you’re independently published. The Wishing Shelf Awards gave me a real boost. The feedback was constructive and helpful, and winning a bronze medal has helped me to promote the book further. Many thanks to Edward and his readers for all their hard work.’

Joanna Dobson, author of Incredible! Plant Veg, Grow a Revolution

’The Wishing Shelf Book Awards is worth entering because there are a wide range of readers choosing to read your book. But the most important thing about entering The Wishing Shelf Book Awards is you receive a review. Most awards don’t offer reviews. So take advantage of this opportunity.’

Rebecca Nolen, author of The Dry and Deadly Thyme

’There are two reasons why the Wishing Shelf Book Awards are brilliant. First, all the authors who enter get feedback which I have found invaluable. That, alone, is worth the (very reasonable) price of entry. Second, the winners, as well as the finalists, are decided by actual readers, rather than a public vote. That makes the Wishing Self Book Awards a true arbiter of quality - rather than a competition to see which finalist has the biggest mailing list or the largest and most dynamic group of fans. That is of huge significance for the lesser known or new independent authors who enter, such as myself and to all readers who are looking for quality books.’

M T McGuire, author of K’Barthan Series

’I found my readers’ reports/book reviews to be helpful, informative and encouraging. What also impressed me was the initial application process and the co-ordinator’s prompt and courteous email communication regarding the acceptance of my two-book series into the awards. The review-for-every-entrant policy ensured that even if I didn’t win I’d feel like I won if I lost (to sort of quote the 70s lyrics of an iconic Swedish pop group!) And then much to my surprise, in addition to the reviews and the quotes for both novels’ back-covers, I received a Red Ribbon Award! I highly recommend The Wishing Shelf Awards to independently published authors. If any of my future books are accepted into another of the WSA’s annual contests, the readers’ report alone will be a worthwhile gain.’

Sonya Deanna Terry, author of Epiphany – THE GOLDING (Book1) and Epiphany - THE SILVERING (Book 2)

’Once again, many thanks for the response by your judges. I couldn’t agree more regarding my horrendous grammar, punctuations and abominable use of apostrophes. I must confess that it was very naive of me not to even have my own wife assess the manuscript before sending it off. She is a real stickler and nitpicker regarding the English language. Nevertheless I thoroughly enjoyed writing it as it is a collection of nonsensical gibberish that I hope some one will pick up and laugh their heads off despite the fact that the world’s technological section is
leaps ahead of the contents of my short anthropology. My daughter’s drawings are probably the best contribution as per the awarded Brownie points.’

James G Skinner, author of Speak to me, reader!